Meet Tony Lee Gratz
05/15/2024
From ER Extra to Leading Political Man: Tony Lee Gratz on Crafting a Post-Apocalyptic Political Thriller
by Kraken Film Magazine
Kraken Film Magazine had the pleasure of sitting down with Tony Lee Gratz to discuss his role as Senator Henry West in the political thriller "Happy Birthday" (2023), directed by Ezekiel N. Drews and Joseph A. Mauro. Through a series of insightful questions, Gratz shared his experiences, challenges, and perspectives on both the film and his acting career.
"Happy Birthday" is described by Gratz as "kind of like a post-apocalyptic film".
It revolves around a world devastated by a global pandemic and focuses on one man’s journey through this altered landscape. The film takes place two years after a major viral outbreak. We follow the daily routine of John (director/actor Ezekiel N. Drews), a man living in a remote cabin in the middle of the woods. Through a series of flashbacks and intricated backstories, we're provided of a backdrop for a story that delves deep into political turmoil and personal struggle.
Who is Senator West?
Gratz's character, Senator Henry West, is a key political figure in the film, positioned as "the main political competitor to the egomaniacal sitting president who is letting the country go to pieces." This role required Gratz to tap into the complexities of political rivalry and leadership during a crisis.
How did Gratz score this juicy role? Through sheer talent and persistence. "I hadn’t worked with this team before," he shared. He auditioned for multiple roles, but his performance was so compelling that the filmmakers created the role of Senator West specifically for him. Talk about making an impression!
The Path to Acting
Gratz’s path to acting was as dramatic as some of his roles. "I’ve always been a creative and dramatic person ever since I was a child," he confessed. A true movie buff, he was inspired to blend his artistic talents and love for film into a career. Keep reading to find out more!
Q: What led you to a career in acting?
Tony: I've always been a dramatically oriented person ever since I was a child, and artistic expression came very easily to me, from drawing to acting. I’ve also been a die-hard movie fan and could easily see myself in the characters, so I decided to give it a try and blend all these things into what is now a successful career in acting. I started out first as an extra on the TV show ER, and I immediately fell in love with it. But I decided to raise my kids first and took a long break before really pursuing it.
Q: Was this your first role involved in a political background? And, can you tell us more about your acting background?
Tony: I've played some smaller political roles before in other films, but I wouldn’t say it’s a prominent character type for me. I’ve usually played more “leading man” types and quite a lot of officer types: FBI, CIA, detectives. I’ve been acting for a little over ten years, starting out with student films and small shorts and features. I’ve also done a lot of commercial work. I’ve moved up to working full time as an actor now with over 150 projects between film, TV, and commercials. I made my network TV debut in a co-star role on NBC's "Chicago Fire" last year, and I have over 10 films streaming on networks right now, including my most recent film, "Secret Life of a Sorority Girl," on Lifetime.
Q: "Happy Birthday" boasts dual directors. What was it like receiving direction from two individuals?
Having two directors surprisingly was very easy on this film. They worked very well off of each other and the directing style of both was very laid back .
Q: How do you believe "Happy Birthday" contributes to the political thriller genre, and what message or themes do you hope viewers take away from the film?
Tony: I think this kind of film fits well in this time both for the political climate that has been going on the last few years as well as the recent pandemic . I believe the audience will be able to relate to a lot of the subject matter.
Q: Can you give three top pieces of advice for any actor reading this article?
Tony: Study and practice your craft whether it’s in classes, doing self-tapes, auditions, workshops, making films with friends, or being an extra to learn how to act on set and understand all the roles involved on set. Hustle! Don’t wait for the phone to ring. Network and be professional and friendly. Know your role and your lines, and be prepared. Your name is your brand, and it carries weight in this industry. If you demonstrate professionalism and show that you're someone others want to work with, you'll go far.
Future Aspirations
Ever the dreamer, Gratz has his sights set on diverse roles. "I still would love to do more sci-fi films and action films and even play some superheroes," he shared. He’s also intrigued by the idea of playing complex psychological characters, such as a multi-personality role.
Well, folks, there you have it - Tony's journey is like a Hollywood rollercoaster ride packed with anedctodes! His insights into "Happy Birthday" and his career don't just give you a peek behind the curtain, they practically kick down the door and invite you in for a wild ride. Whether you're an aspiring actor hungry for tips or just a movie buff looking for some juicy behind-the-scenes gossip, Tony's got you covered.
Contact info:
Website: www.imdb.com/name/nm3791332/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/actortonyleegratz/?locale=it
"Happy Birthday": www.imdb.com/title/tt27424259/
Poster from "Happy Birthday" (2023).